What is First Access?
The National Plan for Music Education states that every music education hub must:
"Ensure that every child aged five to 18 has the opportunity to learn a musical instrument (other than voice) through whole-class ensemble teaching programmes for ideally a year (but for a minimum of a term) of weekly tuition on the same instrument."
The first step in learning to play an instrument is normally whole class instrumental tuition or, as it is known, “Wider Opportunities”. This programme has introduced millions of children nationwide to the magic and discipline of making music. Tutors teach pupils an instrument every week for between one term and one year.
The aim is for every child to benefit, regardless of family income or circumstances.
The wider opportunities programme is totally inclusive. As a whole class activity it offers opportunity for all.
- Weekly lessons which fulfil the objectives of the national curriculum for music.
- Pupils are given ownership and responsibility of an instrument; they almost always respond positively to the trust and responsibility that is placed in them.
- Working together co-operatively, listening to each other and teamwork skills are enhanced throughout the programme.
What we offer
Every school in Cheshire East can benefit from:
- Free loan of instruments for First Access programmes
- Grant support towards tuition
- Annual Quality Assurance visits and professional support
Your choice of provider
As the most substantial provider of music education in the borough, The Love Music Trust is the chosen provider of tuition in around 80% of the schools which it supports. However, Cheshire East schools are free to choose who delivers their tuition. It can be an established organisation, a directly-engaged music tutor or a member of school staff.
Don't miss out!
Apply for a grant via the Schools Gateway.
The application window opens around February half-term and applications can made up until the end of the summer term for the following year. Applications requiring the new loan of instruments should be made by May half-term.
Schools who already receive grant support will be invited to renew their hub partnership agreement and do not need to make a new application online.
Schools who have not claimed their grant will be contacted by letter. We also publicise the availability of the grants in the Cheshire East schools' bulletin.
Key documents for participating schools
For all schools using LMT instruments:
Home-School Instrument Loan Agreement
Instrument Replacement Values List
Instrument Repair Procedures
LMT-delivered programmes only:
Wider Opportunities: Introduction Letter
Wider Opportunities: Assessment criteria and certificates
Changing children’s lives through music
